The Do's And Don'ts Of Securing Your Home
Securing your home should always be top priority, though sometimes common mistakes are made. Here are some things you can do to improve the security of your home and other things you should avoid.
Do: Install a new deadbolt lock
If your current door lock has been on your front door for a while, it might be time to upgrade. Changing your lock every few years is a good idea to ensure you have the best one available. If you aren't sure how to install it properly and securely, have a locksmith do it for you. If you don't want a brand new lock, but just to change the lock, a locksmith can help you with that too. You should change the lock if you lose your house keys or if a roommate moves out.
Do: Keep the windows locked
The windows in your home should always be locked when you are sleeping or when you are not at home. Don't assume just closing them will keep out intruders. Make sure you have sturdy locks on all windows and keep those windows secure. It is also a good idea to lock them when you are home and have the windows closed. It gets you into the habit of automatically locking them whenever they are closed.
Don't: Leave the garage door opener in plain sight
A big mistake homeowners tend to make is by leaving their garage door opener in their car, in plain sight. Your home may be difficult to break into, but your car probably isn't. If an intruder sees the garage door opener right in your center console or hanging from your visor, it might give them a good reason to break into your car and grab it. With that, they can gain entry into your garage, which might make it easier to get into your house. If you insist on keeping it in your car, keep it somewhere hidden where it is not easy to find.
Don't: Hide a key in the front yard
Hiding a key in the front yard is another home security mistake that people make. If you want to keep a spare key on your premises just in case you lose yours, don't keep it anywhere in the front yard. Definitely do not put it under a rock next to the door or under the doormat. If you need it outside, choose a spot on the side of your house or behind your house that you will remember but someone else wouldn't easily guess. Hiding it inside your electrical box or under one rock in a pile of rocks in the backyard might work well. Call your local locksmith, such as A-Dave's Lock & Safe, to learn more.